San Diego River Conservancy’s Legislative Report



Dear Governor Brown and Members of the Legislature,The San Diego River Conservancy is pleased to submit our first Legislative report to the Governor and Legislature. This report outlines the activities of the San Diego River Conservancy over the past year as now required by AB 392 which was signed into law by Governor Brown in 2015.This report will cover our activities from the mouth of the San Diego River to the headwaters of the river in the mountains near Julian, California.We would like to salute and thank all of our partners in this endeavor to protect, acquire and manage public lands within the San Diego River watershed. The Conservancy provides recreation opportunities, open space, wildlife habitat and species restoration and protection, wetlands protection and restoration, along with historical and cultural resources development and protection. We are also charged with the maintenance of the quality of the waters in the San Diego River and its watershed for beneficial uses.Without the hard work of all the river volunteers, our member agencies, elected officials and the public we would not have been able to accomplish our first steps towards meeting our objectives to enhance quality recreational opportunities along the San Diego River.I would also like to thank all of the elected officials, and residents of San Diego who had the vision, foresight and fortitude to establish the San Diego River Conservancy to help protect this valuable resource for the San Diego region.On behalf of the Board of Directors of the San Diego River Conservancy we submit this report for your consideration.Sincerely,975791118505Ruth Hayward, Vice Chair SDRC Dear Members of the California State Legislature,On behalf of the San Diego River Conservancy, thank you for your continued interest and support of work by the Conservancy to protect and enhance the unique history, natural resources and cultural heritage within the river’s watershed. Attached is an update on the San Diego River watershed including a summary, a map highlighting selected projects for the period of 2014 to 2016, and a video. The video is located at San Diego River Conservancy was established in 2002 and became a permanent state agency through the passage of Assembly Bill 392 by then Assembly Member and current Senator Toni Atkins in October 2015On November 4, 2014 voters approved the Proposition 1 – the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014. The Conservancy was allocated $17 million for multi benefit ecosystem, watershed protection and restoration projects.As of January 12, 2017 the Conservancy’s Governing Board has approved 12 projects for funding totaling $5,167,055.70 with 2 additional recommendations pending. Under the Conservancy’s Proposition 1 Grant Program additional rounds of funding will be available in FY 18/19 and FY 21/22. The Conservancy added one new staff member, an environmental scientist, to implement its Proposition 1 Grant Program.The Conservancy has served as a catalyst for improvements along the San Diego River by working with local jurisdictions, government agencies, academic institutions, nonprofits, and citizen coalitions that share an appreciation and vision for the river. The Conservancy prides itself on being a steward of the environment which fosters relationships with organizations that have the commitment and capacity to restore and improve the river by protecting its resources. The Conservancy leverages local, state, federal, and other funding sources through innovative partnerships to yield projects with multiple benefits.The Conservancy and its partners have been aggressively implementing its invasive plant removal and control program within the watershed and have also made progress completing gaps along the San Diego River Trail, including segments located in the cities of San Diego and Santee and the Lakeside community in the unincorporated area of San Diego County. The segments include developing trails over approximately 10 miles of various terrain difficulties throughout the watershed. The trails represent an important function of the Conservancy in allowing public access to experience San Diego River’s beautiful and diverse habitats and, by extension appreciation of its resource conservation efforts.California remains a state rich in its history of responsible conservation principles extending from John Muir to the formation of the California Conservation Corps and other state conservancies like ours that protect local watersheds. With the continuedassistance of the Legislature, the San Diego River Conservancy will carry that legacy forward for future generations.There are so many to thank for the improvements to public access, environmental restoration and protection of cultural and historic sites that have been made along the 52-mile San Diego River. I would personally like to thank members of the Conservancy Board, state and federal agencies, the Kumeyaay Nation, the County of San Diego, the community of Lakeside, the cities of San Diego and Santee, the Conservancy’s many community-based partners, our staff and the hundreds of volunteers who work with non- profit organizations and local partners for their dedication and tireless efforts to make the river and its watershed a cultural, historical and natural resource for all to enjoy now and into the future. We appreciate the confidence the Legislature has placed in the San Diego River Conservancy Board and its staff.Sincerely, Julia L. Richards Executive OfficerExecutive SummaryThe San Diego River is one of Southern California’s most remarkable treasures, from the headwaters in the mountains to the Pacific Ocean. San Diego could not have developed without the river. The San Diego River drew first the Kumeyaay Indians more than 11,000 years ago, then came the Spanish missionaries, European settlers, and others followed. However, recent urbanization has threatened the river’s health. The San Diego River Conservancy seeks to protect and preserve the health of these natural, cultural, historic, and recreational resources by preserving and promoting a river corridor that connects habitat conservation areas, parks, and public open spaces.The Conservancy is creating the San Diego River Trail, which links communities to the river through a series of connected parks from the headwaters in Julian to the mouth of the river in Ocean Beach. The San Diego River Trail provides public access where people can experience nature in rural and urban communities along the river.The mission of the Conservancy is to balance modern land preservation practices with recreational opportunities to allow the public to enjoy natural resources. The Conservancy Strategic Plan Update (2012-2017) lists five main goals: (1) Land conservation, (2) Recreation and education (3) Natural and cultural resources preservation and restoration, (4) Water quality and natural flood conveyance, and (5) Outreach based on watershed alliances and collaboration.Population growth and development along the river has altered natural conditions changing the riverine landscape. These changes caused an infestation of invasive vegetation which increased the risk of flood and fire. To ameliorate these impacts, SDRC uses watershed wide permits to remove invasive non-native plants and restore the land with native vegetation. Currently, five projects have addressed more than 60 acres with a focus on removing Arundo and other non-native plants. The invasive plants consume large quantities of water and removing them provides benefits to water quality and supply.The San Diego River watershed is home to many plants and animals. The watershed is comprised of vast habitats including coastal marshes, fresh water streams, upland meadows, oak woodlands and forests. To this day the riverbanks still hold historic and cultural resources, including sacred sites of Native American tribes. The Conservancy’s work helps to protect these cherished California assets.SDRC continues to enhance its jurisdictional lands by expanding its reach with partners and sharing information for productive collaboration. It is the intent of SDRC to protect and restore the many resources in the San Diego River watershed for current and future generations.39738294428744Table 1. Summary of Strategic Plan Update 2012-2017’s associated projects for 2014-2016.Program 1: Conserve Land Along the San Diego River2 Acquisition Projects:113 acres conservedRefer to projects (12) and (14) of the Legislative Report MapProgram 2: Emphasize Recreation and Education4 San Diego River Trail segments constructed:Totaling 10 miles, plus kiosks and interpretive signsRefer to projects (2), (6), (9), (11) and (13) of the Legislative Report MapProgram 3A: Preserve and Restore Natural Resources5 Invasive Removal and Habitat Restoration Projects:66 acres invasives controlledRefer to projects (3), (4), (5), (7) and (10) of the Legislative Report MapProgram 3B: Protect and Preserve Cultural and Historical ResourcesJunipero Serra Museum Interpretive Master Plan - Interior and Exterior exhibitsRefer to project (1) of the Legislative Report MapProgram 4: Enhance Water Quality and Flood ConveyanceMast Park Master Plan Public park revitalization, drainage enhancements and water quality improvementsRefer to project (8) of the Legislative Report MapSan Diego River Conservancy's Legislative Report (2014-2016)Carlton Oaks Golf Course Trail segmentSycamore Creek(12) El Monte ValleyMule deerTemescal Creek(14) Temescal CreekSan Vicente RiverSan Diego RiverCedar Creek(3) Shepherd Canyon(8) Mast ParkMountain lionGreat blue heronLeast Bell's vireoBoulder Creek(13) Historic Flume Trail segmentSan Vicente River(5) MidWest TV(2) Qualcomm Trail segmentSycamore CreekSan Diego RiverLos Coches Creek(1) Serra MuseumShepherd CanyonYellow-rumped warblerSan Diego RiverForester Creek(11) Flume Trail Extension segment01.753.57MilesAlvarado Creek(4) Alvarado CreekLargemouth bassWalker PreserveLos Coches Creek?San Diego River Conservancy Created by DHarrison@sdrc.December 2016City of San DiegoCity of SanteeCommunity of LakesideCounty of San DiegoBelow summaries are samples of Conservancy projects in progress orcompleted during 2014-2016.Junipero Serra MuseumAn historical monument overlooking the San Diego River estuary, with scenic panoramic views to the east, located on the precipice of Presidio Park.Project name:Junipero Serra Museum – Implementation of Interpretive Master PlanProject Description:Interior and exterior exhibits describing historicaldevelopment and activities centered on the San Diego RiverGrantee:San Diego History CenterPerformance period:May 2015 - March 2017Funding source:Proposition 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Grant amount:$250,000 Leverage/matching funds:Yes Project status:In progressAcres/miles:N/ADisadvantaged community:YesQualcomm StadiumFormerly home to National Football League’s San Diego Chargers, this pedestrian trail segment connects Mission Valley south of the stadium from Fenton Parkway to Rancho Mission Road as part of the San Diego River Trail.Project name:Qualcomm Trail segmentProject Description:To complete planning of the Qualcomm Stadiumsegment of the San Diego River Trail.Grantee:San Diego Association of GovernmentsPerformance period:May 2012 – Fall 2017Funding:Proposition 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Grant Amount:$168,000Leveraged/matching funds:N/AProject status:In progress; CEQA completedAcres/miles:Approximately 0.5 mileDisadvantaged community:NoShepherd CanyonVolunteers form Friends of the Canyon work together in the community of Tierrasanta to restore Shepherd Canyon.Project name:Invasive removal and control in Shepherd Canyon Project Description:Invasive removal and control in Shepherd Canyon, inpartnership with San Diego Canyonlands and theFriends of the Canyon, to restore a tributary to the San Diego River.Grantee:San Diego CanyonlandsPerformance period:May 2014 - August 2017Funding:San Diego River ConservancyGrant amount:$17,680 Leveraged/matching funds:Yes Project status:In progressAcres/miles:Approximately 12 acres (0.8 stream mile)Disadvantaged community:NoAlvarado CreekSan Diego State University owns riparian habitat along Alvarado Creek, a tributary to the San Diego River. This project is a partnership between the Conservancy, the University and the San Diego State University Research Foundation to remove invasive non-native vegetation according to the Conservancy’s permits.Project name:Invasive Plant Removal and control at Alvarado CreekProject Description:Removal and control of invasive non-native plants inand along Alvarado Creek. Biomass was removed to allow for native vegetation regrowth.Grantee:San Diego State University Research FoundationPerformance period:February 2016 – February 2018Funding:Proposition 1 - San Diego River ConservancyGrant amount:$500,396 Leveraged/matching funds:Yes Project status:In progressAcres/miles:1 acre (1,200 LF of creek)Disadvantaged community:YesMidWest TVAt the eastern boundary of Mission Trails Regional Park is the Midwest Television restoration site where invasive non-native plants are controlled to improve native habitat, conserve water resources and enhance natural flow conveyance.Project name:Invasive removal and control at Midwest TelevisionProject Description:At the eastern boundary of Mission Trails RegionalPark was private property infested with invasive non- native plants. SDRC removed biomass allowing native habitat to return, conserve water resources and enhance natural flow conveyance.Vendor:Nature’s ImagePerformance period:August 2013 – November 2015Funding:Proposition 40(Natural Resources Agency)Contract amount:$47,501Project status:CompletedAcres/miles:Approximately 4 acres (0.4 stream miles)Disadvantaged community:NoCarlton Oaks Golf Course Trail segmentEnter East County and enjoy a scenic trail through the southern edge of 18-hole Carlton Oaks Golf Course. The Conservancy in partnership with San Diego Association of Governments has completed the planning alignment for this section of the San Diego River Trail. Construction is planned for Winter 2018.Project name:Carlton Oaks Trail segmentProject Description:San Diego Association of Governments (“SANDAG”)will complete planning of the Carlton Oaks segment of the San Diego River Trail.Performance period:May 2012 – Fall 2018Funding:Propositions 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Grant amount:$332,000Grantee:SANDAGLeveraged/matching funds:YesProject status:In progress; alignment determinedAcres/miles:0.8 mileDisadvantaged community:NoSycamore CreekPrior to Arundo removal at Sycamore Creek, water and migratory birds were not visible and this area was a fire and flood hazard. After removal wildlife returned to the creek. A great blue heron (Ardea herodias) was spotted in the tree canopy.Project name:Invasive removal and control in Sycamore Creek Project Description:One year into the project after biomass removednative vegetation rebounded and flourished, waters flow and numerous birds have returned.Vendor:ACS Habitat ManagementPerformance period:August 2014- August 2017Funding:Propositions 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Contract amount:$244,000 Leveraged/matching funds:N/A Project status:In progressAcres/miles:14 acresDisadvantaged community:NoMast ParkThe City of Santee’s Mast Park trail runs along the north of the San Diego River. Drainage enhancements will complement the 9-hole disc golf course, basketball court and playground. Also, upgrades to the park include bioswales, natural filtration area, retention basin and space for play.Project name:Mast Park (2012 Update) includesProject Description:Project will improve inadequate drainage, removecontaminants in stormwater runoff, move trail away from river and install permeable trail surface for public access and restore riparian habitat by increasing buffer zone around the San Diego River.Grantee:City of SanteePerformance period:January 2017- March 2019Funding:Proposition 1(San Diego River Conservancy)Grant amount:$1,233,000Leveraged/matching funds:YesProject status:Grant awaiting signaturesAcres/miles:Approximately 30 acres (0.39 stream mile or 2,080 LF)Disadvantaged community:NoWalker PreserveThis is a multi-user trail which serves hikers, cyclists and equestrians. They can stop to read nature interpretive signage, walk down to the pond, and enjoy the viewing the wildlife. There are even amenities for bicycle riders to repair a flat tire. The map shows a yellow-rumped warbler (Setophaga coronata) perched on laurel sumac.Project name:Walker Preserve Trail segmentProject Description:Decomposed granite and lodge pole fencing runsalong the 0.8-mile segment of the San Diego River Trail.Grantee:City of SanteePerformance period:October 2014 – April 2015Funding:Propositions 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Grant cost:$1,200,000 Leveraged/matching funds:Yes Project status:CompletedAcres/miles:Approximately 107 acres/ 0.8 milesDisadvantaged community:NoLos Coches CreekInterspersed between Flynn Springs, Winter Gardens and Lakeside residents, Los Coches Creek invasives are under control. Arundo in this area has often caught fire and caused the loss of life and property.Project name:Invasive removal and control at Los Coches Creek Project Description:Los Coches Creek, a tributary to the San Diego River,was heavily infested with Arundo. This project removed ad revegetated approximately 35 acres.Grantee:Lakeside’s River Park ConservancyPerformance period:September 2014- April 2016Funding:Propositions 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Grant amount:$660,000 Leveraged/matching funds:No Project status:CompletedAcres/miles:35 acresDisadvantaged community:YesEl Monte ValleyHelix Water District surplused 3 parcels of land in the community of Lakeside in the unincorporated area of San Diego County. The City of San Diego, Public Utilities Department will purchase fee title to this property for annual groundwater and surface water monitoring and to conserve this habitat.Project name:El Monte Valley – Land AcquisitionProject Description:Land conservation of 3 parcels in El Monte Valley, inthe San Diego River watershed below El Capitan reservoir in Lakeside.Grantee:City of San Diego, Public Utilities DepartmentPerformance period:TBDFunding:Proposition 1 – San Diego River ConservancyGrant amount:$540,000 Leveraged/matching funds:Yes Project status:In progress(San Diego City Council review)Acres/miles:Approximately 38 acresDisadvantaged community:YesFlume Trail Extension segmentThis project designed and constructed under a mile segment of the San Diego River Trail with several switchbacks. At the top of the hike up this segment of the San Diego River Trail are amazing views of Lake Jennings, El Cajon Mountain, and other open space.Project name:Flume Trail Extension segment, trailhead and parking areaProject Description:This project designed and constructed 0.8 miles oftrail, trailhead, parking area, mitigation and interpretive signage discussing history of water transport in San Diego.Grantee:County of San Diego and San Diego Urban CorpsPerformance period:October 2014 - May 2016Funding:Proposition 40(Natural Resources Agency)Grant amount:$325,000Leveraged/matching funds:Yes($110,000 from Hervey Family of Fundsat the San Diego Foundation)Project status:CompletedAcres/miles:0.8 milesDisadvantaged community:No, but a disadvantaged community is located within 300 feet of projectHistoric Flume Trail segmentRunning along mountain ridges this challenging trail segment was constructed on the bench cut along the mountain that once carried water in a redwood flume from Lake Cuyamaca down to the City of San Diego. Now the trail vistas overlook San Diego County’s El Monte Park, El Monte Valley and El Cajon MountainProject name:Historic Flume Trail segmentProject Description:Design and construct 2.5 miles of trail from theCounty of San Diego’s El Monte Park to the flume bench cut along the south edge of El Monte Valley in Lakeside.Grantee:The County of San DiegoPerformance period:May 2013 – June 2015Funding:Proposition 84(State Coastal Conservancy)Grant amount:$485,000 Leveraged/matching funds:No Project status:CompletedAcres/miles:2.5 milesDisadvantaged community:No, but a disadvantaged community is located within1,600 feet (0.3 mile) of projectTemescal CreekA 75-acre wildlife corridor in the headwaters of the San Diego River has been conserved. The map shows cougar (Puma concolor californica), cubs as well as mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and fawn were captured traversing an animal trail.Project name:Temescal Creek – Land AcquisitionProject Description:Land Conservation of meadow and oak woodland inthe upper watershed of the San Diego River in Julian.Grantee:San Diego River Park FoundationPerformance period:May 2016 – May 2036Funding:Proposition 1Grant cost:$355,000Leveraged/matching funds:YesProject status:In progressAcres/miles:Approximately 75 acresDisadvantaged community:NoThank you to the Conservancy’s many partners!971550-13835771770240-924955990600-151334603156038790With support from Opening the Outdoors Program and the Hervey Family FundEndangered Habitats ConservancySan Diego CanyonlandsBack Country Land Trust ................
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